The King is dead but in the hearts and minds of millions of music fans across the globe the legend that was Elvis Presley is immortal. As probably the most iconic figure in the history of entertainment, he has been imitated and impersonated for decades, from the swankiest rooms in Las Vegas to karaoke bars everywhere else.
The Elvis Years is a fitting tribute to The King; however many times I see the show, I’m always guaranteed a wonderful time and Friday evening at Edmonton’s Millfield Theatre was no exception!
The star of the show is Mario Kombou, the man tasked with delivering all the lyrics, donning all the outfits and producing excellence in both vocal ability and showmanship. Right from the start this biographical portrait of Presley’s career had the crowd captivated and kept them enthralled throughout the evening.
All the major points on the Elvis Presley timeline are included, from the humble youth cutting his first record at Sun Studio, to appearances at the Grand Ole Opry and the Louisiana Hayride. It’s not long before his fame takes him on the Ed Sullivan show, and even a brief stint of national service, doesn’t stop Elvis from becoming the biggest star of the 20th century.
All these facets were perfectly captured in brilliant detail with countless costume changes and the ease of Kombou’s ability to not just sound like Elvis but almost channel the renowned artist into his performance.
Aside from Kombou, the show succeeds even further with note perfect contributions from the four musicians and the sheer exuberance of the female dancers/backing singers.
There was a great combination of more than 40 hits belted out during the two-hour set including That’s Alright Mama, Blue Suede Shoes, Hound Dog, Don’t Be Cruel, (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear, G.I. Blues, Love Me Tender, Now Or Never, Stuck On You, Jailhouse Rock, Rock A Hula, Bossa Nova Baby, C’Mon Everybody, Return To Sender, Viva Las Vegas, Heartbreak Hotel, Trouble, All Shook Up, If I Can Dream, Always On My Mind, I Just Can’t Help Believing, In The Ghetto, You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’, The Wonder Of You, My Way, Can’t Help Falling In Love, Burning Love and Suspicious Minds.
Altogether, a real gem of a show. Catch a performance if you can – visit www.theelvisyears.com